A chaotic press conference by war veterans in Bulawayo was interrupted by youths from Youth Connect claiming to have reserved the venue. The veterans viewed this as state-sponsored disruption and denounced attempts to silence them while advocating for governance reform. The incident highlights growing tensions between veterans and the government amid rising factionalism within Zanu PF.
A press conference held by war veterans at the Bulawayo Media Centre was disrupted by a group claiming to represent Youth Connect. The veterans intended to discuss governance issues in Zimbabwe and announce a protest against corruption and economic decline. They accused the youths of being “hired hands” sent to infringe upon their rights to free speech and assembly.
The gathering highlighted rising tensions between the war veterans and the government. Attendees included Andreas Ethan Mathibela and Buster Magwizi, leaders of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association and the ZPRA Veterans Association, respectively. As the veterans prepared to speak, the youths disrupted them, asserting they had reserved the venue for their own meeting.
Outside the venue, a significant police presence raised suspicions about the youths’ motives. Inside, the veterans challenged the legitimacy of Youth Connect, questioning their intentions amid fears of governmental interference. Magwizi expressed frustration, stating, “We came to the press club to address journalists, thinking democracy is there in Zimbabwe…”
Both Mathibela and Magwizi emphasized their commitment to non-partisan advocacy for Zimbabwe’s political and economic freedoms, rooted in their historical struggle. They condemned the disruption as an attempt to sideline their voices. Upon facing provocation from the youths, Magwizi stated, “We are not here to trouble each other. Better for you to kill us, shoot us.”
Tensions escalated when a youth grabbed Mathibela’s cap, leading to a confrontation with police intervention. Mathibela reiterated the veterans’ demands for better governance, denouncing corruption within the current leadership. Enhancing their resolve, he declared, “We have informed the police… people are supposed to go onto the streets to exercise their constitutional rights. They will not stop us.”
As the confrontation continued, one youth threatened the veterans, asserting there would be no demonstration. Their attitude incited further outrage among the veterans. Nevertheless, Mathibela remained defiant, assuring, “We will overwhelm them.” Observations revealed that some youths received payment amid the chaos, suggesting the possibility of organized disruption against the veterans.
The veterans openly expressed support for recently expelled war veteran Blessed Geza, who criticized President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Growing factionalism within Zanu PF also contributes to the discontent among veterans as the succession battle heats up ahead of elections.
The disruption of the war veterans’ press conference signifies escalating tensions in Zimbabwe, particularly regarding the government’s stance on dissent. As veterans continue to advocate for political and economic freedoms, challenges persist in their efforts to speak out. The involvement of youth factions raises concerns about state interference and the ongoing fight for democratic rights in the country.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
